Kenyan alternative collective Kodong Klan have withdrawn from performing at Tukutane’s highly anticipated Gabzy and Asake concert, citing what they describe as persistent disrespect, contractual breaches and unacceptable treatment during soundcheck excercise.
They released a statement hours before the show, announcing that they would not be taking to the stage, framing their decision as a matter of principle rather than convenience.
According to Kodong Klan, the withdrawal followed a “consistent pattern of disregard for agreed upon standards”, which they say culminated in interference from another performer’s team during soundcheck, alongside what they termed a lack of timely intervention from the event organisers.
The statement suggests that key commitments made prior to the signing of contracts were repeatedly altered or ignored, despite what the collective describes as multiple attempts to resolve the issues amicably.
“Despite multiple efforts on our part to adjust and resolve these issues in good faith, our concerns were not taken seriously,” the group noted, underlining a breakdown in communication and trust between the artists and organisers.
They further emphasised that respect for the art, the people behind it, and the labour required to deliver quality performances is “non-negotiable”.
Performing under the prevailing conditions, they argued, would have implied acceptance of treatment they believe undermines both artists and the creative process itself.
“This decision protects the artist, the team, and the craft,” the statement read, signalling that the group viewed the moment as larger than a single show.
The cancellation inevitably disappointed fans who had been looking forward to seeing the collective perform on a major stage alongside international stars.
Kodong Klan acknowledged this directly, expressing appreciation to supporters and stressing that the decision was neither impulsive nor taken lightly.
“This was not a light decision, but it was the right one,” they concluded.
The organisers of the concert are yet to issue a response at the time of publication.
Sauti Sol’s Bien took a jab at the organisers and insisted that Kodong Klan should “…Just come home. They are royalty in our eyes,” he commented.